Golf, bridge and bingo not exactly on your retirement list? How about football, zoology and theater? A growing number of American seniors are opting out of traditional retirement communities, lush with golf courses and nearby shopping, for university-based retirement communities, or UBRCs.

In June 2014, the U.S. Census Bureau released "65+ in the United States: 2010," a major report about our nation's seniors, based on data collected during the most recent census. Said the Census Bureau's Enrique Lamas, "The findings, released with the National Institute on Aging (NIA) at the National Institutes of Health, provide the most detailed information available on the demographic, economic, and health and wellness characteristics of this rapidly growing dynamic population."

Deciding where to live is an important part of planning for our senior years. Should we stay in our own home? Live with other family members? Move to a retirement community, assisted living or other supportive environment?

"Dad, turn down the TV, it’s too loud!" This is often the first sign that an older loved one is experiencing hearing loss. Hearing loss can shut seniors out of conversations and make it difficult to hear instructions or even the doorbell. Almost a third of people older than age 60 have reduced ability to hear—yet many older adults are resistant to using hearing aids.

For seniors who live alone, staying safe is imperative. Recognizing the importance of keeping aging loved ones safe at home, Right at Home has compiled an extensive Home Safety Checklist for family caregivers to use to ensure their older loved ones avoid home safety hazards.

Robots have the potential to help older adults with daily activities that can become more challenging with age. But are people willing to use this new technology? A study by the Georgia Institute of Technology indicates the answer is yes, unless the tasks involve personal care or social activities.

The latest U.S. Census showed that fewer Americans are marrying, and fewer are having children. The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) recently urged federal, state and local agencies to ensure that all seniors are served, regardless of marital status. This includes attention to the challenges faced by single seniors.

Poll

Experts predict an increasing family caregiver shortage. What do you think about your own future care needs?

I am confident that family members will be able and glad to help me.

I have family, but I haven’t thought about how much they could help.

I think I’ll be on my own, but I haven’t planned.

I am creating a plan for care that includes professionals.

I am already receiving care.

Providing a website featuring publications in the nature of blogs, articles, and brochures in the fields of home healthcare services, nonmedical personal care assistance with activities of daily living, and disease maintenance.